Darren: West Chicago tutor

Certified Tutor

I'm Dr. Ren! I earned my Ph.D. in Biology with a Plant Sciences focus from the University of South Carolina (UofSC) in 2024, along with my B.S. in 2020. Over the past 7 years of study, I taught college biology lab classes, conducted plant genetics and molecular biology research, published academic articles, mentored undergrad researchers, and received 5 academic awards. Prior, I tutored K-12 students in math and reading at Kumon. I've got the experience to make the science more understandable!
I was a TA at UofSC for 4 years, instructing "Biological Principles II Lab (BIOL102L)", Honors BIOL102L, and "Plant Form and Function Lab (BIOL425L)". I taught topics such as ecology, evolution, genetics, plant/animal physiology, and more, to college students of all ages in small lab/classroom settings. I excel at guiding lab report writing, focusing on experimental design, the scientific method, and logical flow. In BIOL425L I taught advanced plant biology topics such as photosynthesis, cells, plant anatomy, and histology. I believe effective learning stems from making connections: some concepts just click, some need more care, and every student makes connections in their own unique way. Classrooms can feel distant and like factory farms to some students, whereas I take a gardener's approach to cultivate connections. I enjoy truly leveling with my students, guiding them step by step through the complex web of biology concepts until everything clicks together.
As a researcher as well, I use models, figures, and concept mapping to clarify challenging ideas. My specialty is Plant Sciences, Development, and Genetics, and I performed laboratory research at UofSC for 5 years exploring the molecular pathways that control plant aging and leaf morphology. Here, I mastered cell/molecular and genetic techniques, mentored pre-med undergraduate and graduate researchers, wrote peer-reviewed academic articles, presented at national conferences, and received 5 fellowships including the W. Gordon Belser Outstanding Plant Biology Graduate Student Fellowship 2024. With hands-on experience researching Biology I can help students visualize concepts and help navigate the web of science.
I'm happy to help you succeed and understand the fascinating science of Biology! Please let me know if you have any questions at all, and if you'd like to schedule a lesson.